The spectacled petrel is a rare seabird that nests only on the high western plateau of Inaccessible Island in the South Atlantic Tristan da Cunha group. It is one of the largest petrels that nests in burrows. This species was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the white-chinned petrel.
Region
South Atlantic Ocean
Typical Environment
Outside the breeding season it disperses across the South Atlantic, especially between Tristan da Cunha and the Brazilian continental shelf. It frequents productive frontal zones and shelf edges where upwellings concentrate prey. Birds often attend fishing vessels to scavenge discards. Breeding is restricted to burrows on the high plateau of Inaccessible Island.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The spectacled petrel breeds only on the high western plateau of Inaccessible Island in the Tristan da Cunha group. At sea it ranges widely across the South Atlantic, often reaching waters off Brazil and Namibia. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the white-chinned petrel but is now recognized as a distinct species. Longline fisheries bycatch is a key threat, though the population has shown signs of recovery.
Temperament
solitary and pelagic, loosely gregarious around rich feeding areas
Flight Pattern
soaring glider using dynamic soaring with occasional strong, stiff wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in burrows on the high plateau, often in loose colonies. Pairs are long-term monogamous and show strong site fidelity, returning to the same burrow each year. Nocturnal at the colony, which helps reduce predation and disturbance.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Generally silent at sea. At colonies it gives quavering moans, chatter, and groans during nocturnal displays and pair interactions.
